White House Press Release

1779 #201 IMMEDIATE RELEASE AUGUST 18, 1945 The President has reccived the following messages: From King George VI of Great Britain: "The President of the United States of America: "At this historic moment when the surrender of Japan has caused the cessation of hostilities throughout the world I desire to convey to you, Mr. President, an expression of my most heartfelt congratulations and of thankfulness that fina 1 victory has at last been achieved. These feelings are shared by all my peoples who are proud to have been so closely associated with the armed forces and the people of the United States in the defeat of our enemies. That cooperation which has served us so well in time of war will, I am convinced, continue in the days of peace to the benefit not only of our two peoples but also of the nations of the world. GEORGE RI" TRUMAD From Prime Minister Clement Attlee of Great Britain: NARA "President Truman: "Please accept, Mr. Prosident, my congratulations and best wishes on the coming of peace after the long years of anxicty and affliction in which both our countries have shared. May the now era bring the same close comradeship, understanding and goodwill that we have known in war and without which there can be no assurance of lasting peace and prosperity for the world." From Generalissino Chiang Kai-shek: "President Harry S. Truman: "At this glorious hour of our complete victóry ovor our common enemies the entire Chinese nation joins me in pay- ing the highest tribute to the inflexible resolve with which the American people have prosecuted the war against the Axis aggressors. The invaluable contributions to the Allied cause made by our valiant nation for which humanity will forever remain grateful have helped shorten the duration of this bloody struggle and restoro liberty to all oppressed peoples. The Chinese people who were the first victims of Axis aggres- sion and who have suffered the longest in this global war are especially grateful to our American allies for their unceasing moral support and unstinted material assistance. On behalf of the Chinese peoples, beg to express to you our profoundest admiration for the brilliant achievements of the American nation and for the groat role which you and the late President Roosevelt have played in helping to bring about the collapse of the Axis powers in both Europe and Asia. I wish also to assure you, Mr. Prosident, that in the accomplishment of the stupendous task of world wide rehabilitation and roconstruction which still lies ahead China will continue to cooperate with the United States and all the other democratic nations in order that the peace which has been won at such immense costs may be made sure and permanent for the future generations. "CHIANG KAI-SHEK"